Friday, May 9, 2025  |  View in browser

Good morning, 

Check out this week's Parks & Recreation e-news featuring information on free lunch program, Summer program registration, beach passes, upcoming events, and more.

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Evanston Summer Registration Open

Looking for fun and engaging activities this summer? Registration for Summer classes and activities is open for Evanston residents and non-residents.

We offer everything from arts and athletics to outdoor adventures and family-friendly events—perfect for making the most of the summer season.

For more information and to view the guide when it becomes available, visit cityofevanston.org/recreation.

Free Summer Meals for Kids and Teens

This summer, Evanston is offering free breakfast and lunch for youth ages 1–18 at convenient locations across the city—no sign-up or income requirements needed! Just drop in!

Dates: June 9 – August 8
Days: Monday–Friday
Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
No service on June 19 and July 4

Meal Sites:

• Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center
• Robert Crown Community Center
• Mason Park
• Dawes School
• King Arts

Help spread the word to ensure every child in our community has access to healthy meals this summer.

Upcoming Events

Spring Sound Meditation: May 9

Join sound meditation facilitator and musician Jay Taylor for an hourlong immersive experience. Lie back and relax as you listen to the soothing tones of singing bowls. The session will begin with a brief introduction and light guided breathing. Following the meditation, the instructor will share closing reflections on the experience.

No prior experience or skills are required. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket and pillow (optional) to ensure your comfort during the program.

Date: May 9
Hours: 8 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: Prieto Community Center
Cost: $25 R/$33 NR
Register

Family Field Day: May 10

Join the Evanston Early Childhood Council for a free Family Field Day—a joyful event packed with fun and activities for children ages 0–5.

Bring a blanket and a lunch, and get ready for laughter, play, and unforgettable memories with your little ones!

Activities include:

• Sensory Station
• Open Field Play & Tot Lot
• Cold Treats
• Indoor Open Play in the Blue Room
• Balloon Art
• Live Entertainment at Noon

Event will take place rain or shine!

Event details
Date: Saturday, May 10
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Chandler-Newberger Center
Cost: Free

STEMM Day: May 10

Explore Science and Creativity at Fleetwood STEMM Day. The Evanston STEM Expo—a free, hands-on celebration of science, technology, engineering, math and music.​

Hosted by the Digital Youth Network in partnership with Northwestern University, local schools and community organizations, the event offers interactive exhibits, creative activities and opportunities to connect with mentors shaping Evanston’s STEM future.​​

Families participating in the eLEAP program are encouraged to attend a special eLEAP 101 session to learn about scholarship funds and available opportunities.

Event details
Date: Saturday, May 10
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood Community Center 

This is a FREE event, but registration is encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.​

World Migratory Bird Day: May 10-11

World Migratory Bird Day is an important day to celebrate how incredible birds are and promote actions that we can take to protect them. This year's theme, "Shared Spaces", focuses on how we can make communities more bird-friendly. You can celebrate world migratory bird day in Evanston by learning How to Bird, participate in the Illinois Spring Bird Count (no registration required), or learn how to Draw Birds with the Field Museum (register by contacting libbyhill@comcast.net). 

You can also visit our Birdwatching Resources page to find:

American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative Presentation: May 12

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in America, but there is hope. Screening can help find lung cancer at an early stage when it may be easier to treat. Learn more at during a free presentation on the American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative.

Event details
Date: Monday, May 12 
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Levy Center, Locust Room
Cost: Free, but call 847-448-8250 to register
Download a copy of the presentation.

At Home in Evanston Documentary: May 15

Join us for a powerful short documentary that explores what it means to live in Evanston today—through the eyes of diverse community members. This 30-minute film highlights stories from a wide range of voices, including a senior from a retirement community, a Fifth Ward resident eligible for reparations, a Latina lawyer, an unhoused man, a recent NU graduate, a gay pastor, and a young Syrian immigrant entrepreneur.

Event details
Date: Thursday, May 15 
Time: 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Levy Center, Bobby's Room
Cost: Free

Flea Market: May 17

Dive into a world of treasures—whether you're on the hunt for vintage fashion, handmade crafts, antiques, books, tech gadgets, or quirky collectibles, this market has something for everyone. It's the perfect opportunity to support local vendors and find one-of-a-kind items at great prices.

Event details
Date: Saturday, May 17
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Robert Crown tennis courts (street parking on Lee Street or Robert Crown Parking Lot)
Cost: Free

Wild Weekends - World of Reptiles: May 17

Join the Ecology Center at the Levy Senior Center for a live animal presentation. In partnership with an educational organization, participants will explore the fascinating world of reptiles.

Meet these amazing — and often misunderstood — creatures, including snakes, lizards, tortoises and more, and learn about the important roles they play in their native habitats.

Come early at 6:30 p.m. for a reptile-themed craft. The animal presentation will begin at 7 p.m.

Event details
Date: Saturday, May 17
Time: 6:30-8 p.m.
Location: Levy Center
Cost: $12 R/$16 NR
Register

Honeypot: May 17 – June 1

Presented by the Wirtz Center at Northwestern University and Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre, Honeypot is a powerful and poetic stage adaptation of E. Patrick Johnson’s groundbreaking book, adapted by D. Soyini Madison and co-directed by Madison and Tim Rhoze.

Blending oral history with magical realism, Honeypot gives voice to the real-life stories of Black Southern women who love women. Through vivid storytelling, original music, and choreography, these women’s experiences—ranging from coming out and love to faith, family, and activism—unfold in a deeply moving exploration of identity, resilience, and joy.

Performance schedule: 
Saturday, May 17, 7 p.m. – Preview
Sunday, May 18, 3 p.m. – Opening
Saturday, May 24, 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 25, 3 p.m.
Saturday, May 31, 7 p.m.
Sunday, June 1, 3 p.m.
Location: Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre
Cost: Students - $10; general admission - $30
Get tickets

Cardio Drumming: May 22, June 12

Looking for a fun and energizing way to stay active? Join us for Cardio Drumming at the Levy Senior Center. This upbeat class combines drumming with cardio exercises to improve coordination, boost heart health, and reduce stress—all while having a blast. No experience is needed, and all equipment is provided.

Event details
Date: Thursday, May 22 and June 12
Time: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Levy Senior Center
Cost: $22 Levy members / $30 non-members
Register

Evanston Rides: May 31, June 3

Downtown Evanston is teaming up with Evanston Transit Alliance and Chicago Family Biking/Evanston Kidical Mass to bring a full season of community bike rides from May through October 2025.

The Evanston Rides series features two monthly ride options designed for all ages and experience levels:

• Adult rides led by Evanston Transit Alliance

• Family rides led by Chicago Family Biking and Evanston Kidical Mass

Each ride will start, end or pass through Downtown Evanston. All rides are free, but participants are asked to register in advance to help organizers prepare. Helmets are required.

First Rides of the Season:

• Family Ride, Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m.
• Adult Social Ride, Tuesday, June 3, 5:30 p.m.

Explore ride schedule and register.

First Fridays: June 6

Head to Mason Park for Evanston's “My City, Your City, Our City” First Friday event. This free, family-friendly community-building event hosted by the Evanston the C.A.R.E. team, will feature food, music, outdoor games, BINGO, basketball, an obstacle course, raffle prizes and more.

Event details
Date: Friday, June 6
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Mason Park (Church Street and Florence Avenue)
Cost: Free

Lakefront News and Activities

Get Ready for Summer: Beach Passes Available 

Evanston’s public swimming beaches will officially open for the season on Saturday, May 24—and beach passes are now available.

To ensure all community members have access to our beautiful lakefront, the City of Evanston is offering free season beach passes to Evanston residents (ZIP codes 60201 & 60202). Residents can pick up passes for their household by providing proof of residency.

Passes will be available at Dempster Street Beach office from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and during regular business hours at the following locations:

• Robert Crown Community Center

• Levy Senior Center

• Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center

• Chandler-Newberger Community Center

• Prieto Community Center

New for 2025: Families who live outside of Evanston but have students enrolled in School District 65 or ETHS are now also eligible to receive free season beach passes.

Non-Evanston residents who are not eligible for free passes must purchase a season pass or daily beach ticket to enjoy Evanston’s swimming beaches.

For more information on beach hours, rules, and pricing, visit our online beach resources.

Serve Up Some Summer Fun at Clark Street Beach

Looking for a fun and competitive way to enjoy summer evenings? Register now for Evanston’s Co-Ed 6v6 Beach Volleyball Recreational League at Clark Street Beach. Whether you're a seasoned player or just looking to have a great time with friends, this league offers sun, sand, and spirited play in a welcoming environment.

Ages: Adults 18+
Location: Clark Street Beach
Season: June 24–August 17
Prizes: Trophy and prize money awarded to the top team!
Register by May 21 online or by calling 847-448-8252.

Accepting Applications for Church Street
Boat Launch

Get ready for boating season! Submit your application to secure your spot at the Church Street Boat Launch. Complete an online application and a City of Evanston Recreation staff member will reach out to you for payment. Permits are available at the Dempster Street Beach Office May 10 -Labor Day. The beach office will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from May 10-June 6, and then 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. starting June 7. Learn more.

New Hours for the Arrington Lagoon Café

Grab a bite by the beach! Evanston’s Arrington Lagoon Café, 1631 Sheridan Road, is now open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stop by for your morning coffee, a sweet treat, or a lakeside lunch while soaking in those beautiful Evanston views!

Downtown Evanston Farmer's Market

Farmer's Market Open Every Saturday thru November 1

Join us every Saturday through November 1, 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (early shopping for seniors & those with disabilities starts at 7 a.m.) at University Place & Oak Ave, behind the Hilton Garden Inn.

• Named Best Farmers Market – Suburbs by Better Chicago, this season is packed with: 70+ local vendors
• Live music every market day
• New collaborations with Evanston Made and Likhaya
• Spud Club Takeover Days with Evanston Art Center
• Fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, baked goods & more

Shop local, eat fresh, and celebrate 50 years of Evanston tradition. Learn more.

Starlight Movies and Concerts Schedule

2025 Free Starlight Concert and Movie Series Begins in June

Evanston's 2025 Starlight Concert & Movie Series will feature six outdoor concerts and four outdoor movies at park locations throughout the summer. 

Starlight concerts will kick off on June 10, and take place on specified Tuesdays, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Starlight Movies return on Friday, June 27, with a special screening of Wicked (2024, PG) and the annual Food Truck Fest. 

Community members are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks. 

For more information visit cityofevanston.org/starlight or call/text 847-448-4311. For convenience, residents may simply dial 311 in Evanston.

After School and Days Off Programs

Registration for 2025-2026 Afterschool Programs Now Open!

Registration is now open for afterschool programs for the 2025-2026 school year. We offer two outstanding programs: Kid Zone at Fleetwood-Jourdain and Afterschool Adventure at Robert Crown. To register, contact Robert Crown at 847-866-5949 or Fleetwood at 847-449-8254.

Summer Camp Spotlight

Early Childhood Arts Camp at Noyes Cultural Arts Center

Give your little ones a summer of creativity and fun! The Noyes Cultural Arts Center is offering its Early Childhood Arts Camp, specially designed for children ages 3.5 to 5.5 years.

This four-week camp is packed with imaginative experiences, including themed stories, painting, crafts, water play, and time in a big maker space. It offers all the artistic exploration of the Immersion in the Arts Camp, but tailored for younger campers. Register now.

Camp Kaleidoscope

Give your child a summer full of creativity, exploration and fun at Camp Kaleidoscope, held at the Chandler-Newberger Community Center. Designed for children ages 3.5 to 5.5, the camp encourages young participants to express themselves, build independence and ease into the structure of a camp setting. Register now.

Superheroes Dance Camp

It’s a bird... it’s a plane... it’s a dancing superhero! This nonstop, hip-hop inspired summer camp is designed for the boundless energy of kids — our everyday heroes.

Campers will show off their hip-hop dance moves while enjoying a fun-filled week that includes dance classes, art projects, a superhero skit, and games such as scavenger hunts and obstacle courses. It’s your child’s chance to save the day! Family and friends are invited to a special performance on Friday. Register now.

Beginning Gymnastics Camp 

Get ready to roll, jump, and flip into summer with Beginning Gymnastics Camp at the Chandler-Newberger Community Center! This fun and engaging camp is designed for children ages 5–12 and welcomes all skill levels—including those with no prior experience.

Campers will learn and perfect basic gymnastics skills on bars, beam, floor, and vault through age-appropriate drills and activities. This camp is ideal for students in Beginning I, Beginning II, or Tumbling I. Register now.

Preschool Gymnastics Camp Returns to Chandler 

Help your little ones build confidence, coordination, and skills this summer at the Preschool Gymnastics Camp, hosted by the Chandler-Newberger Community Center.

Designed for children ages 3.5 to 5.5 years, this engaging camp focuses on improving balance, flexibility, and general motor skills in a fun and safe environment. Campers will be introduced to basic skills on bars, beam, floor, and vault, with instruction tailored to young learners. Register now.

Accessible Recreation Gaming Camp

Get immersed in the world of tabletop role-playing with Multifaceted Worlds: Gaming Connections. With a focus on fostering accessible, diverse and equitable environments—both in our imaginations and in the real world—participants will explore character creation, apprentice with professional dungeon masters, and take on costume quests and prop building.This program helps develop gaming skills, confidence and leadership. Register now.

Spanish Summer Camp

Spanish Summer Camp offers a fun and immersive experience where children explore Spanish through games, music, art, and interactive activities. Campers will gain confidence in speaking Spanish while enjoying a dynamic and engaging environment. Register now.

Classes & Programs

Registration for our Spring programming is still open. View all our upcoming classes, workshops, school days off activities, and special events.

Summer Madness 2K25 Youth Basketball Tournament

Get ready for Summer Madness 2K25, Evanston’s premier youth basketball tournament. Known for its tough, gritty play, this event brings together boys and girls for spirited competition and team-building.

Participants will battle for the gold while learning key values like sportsmanship, perseverance and teamwork. It’s a high-energy mix of fun and hard work where iron sharpens iron—and only the most unified team rises to the top.

Rookie Division (Kindergarten–2nd Grade)
Our youngest athletes will participate in a unique blend of skill development and gameplay. Each session is split between guided drills and competitive scrimmages, helping players build a strong foundation while having fun on the court.

Register now.

Summer Madness Adult Basketball League

Looking for a competitive and fun way to kick off your week this summer? Look no further than Evanston’s Summer Madness Adult Basketball League.

Gather your crew and hit the court for a season of fast-paced games, team spirit and bragging rights. Whether you're chasing the title or just looking to stay active, this league is your shot to be crowned Royalty of the Court.

Register now.

Play Time and Drop-in Activities

Drop-in Fitness at Robert Crown

Looking for a fun and flexible way to stay active? Robert Crown Community Center is now offering drop-in fitness classes—no pre-registration required!

Cardio Strength for Adults – Jump-start your day with a high-energy workout on Wednesdays from 7 to 8 a.m. Cost is $20 per class.

Active Play for Kids – Let the little ones burn off some energy with engaging activities on Saturdays from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Cost is $15 per class.

Join us for a great workout—just drop in and get moving!

Let’s Play Drop-In

Looking for a fun and flexible activity for your kids? The Prieto Community Center offers Let’s Play Drop-In, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Saturday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We’ve recently lowered prices to better support families.

Pricing:

• Residents: $10 per child, $7 for each additional child
• Non-residents: $13 per child, $10 for each additional child

Stop by and let your kids enjoy a day of play while you enjoy the savings. No registration required—just drop in and let the fun begin.

Time Together Drop-In Play

Looking for fun and connection? Join Time Together at the Chandler-Newberger Community Center on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

This open-play program is for ages birth through 5 years with a parent or caregiver. Our play spaces have climbing equipment, blocks, soft mats, puzzles and a book nook. 

Bring your little ones for playtime while you connect with other parents or catch up with friends. The best part? Your first visit is free! Call 847-448-8252 for more information.

Tennis/Pickleball Outdoor Court Reservations

The outdoor tennis/pickleball court nets are up, and so is our online court reservation system. Secure your spot in advance at cityofevanston.org/courts. The courts are still available for free play on a first-come, first-served basis.

DFEI Tip Sheet: May 2025 Younger/early-onset dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: What do we know and what is there to help us? Learn more.

Get Involved

Upcoming Board & Committee Meetings

• Commission on Aging & Disabilities: May 8 at 3 p.m., Evanston Public Library
• Dementia Friendly Committee: May 13 at 3 p.m., Levy Center 
• Parks & Recreation Board: May 15 at 6 p.m., Robert Crown
• ADA Committee: May 22 at 3 p.m., Evanston Public Library

Accessibility for all

The City of Evanston is committed to promoting a citywide culture of accessibility and inclusivity. To request an accommodation for a program, service, or activity, please call 847-866-2919 to make an ADA service request or complete a request form online. 

Facility Locations and Phone Numbers

Chandler-Newberger Community Center: 847-448-8252
Levy Senior Center: 847-448-8250
Robert Crown Community Center: 847-448-8258
Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center: 847-448-8254
Ecology Center: 847-448-8256
Prieto Community Center: 847-859-7697

Support Evanston Parks & Recreation Your donation will help support lakefront upkeep and the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theater. Donate now

Thanks for reading. Have a great weekend,

The City of Evanston’s Parks and Recreation Team